Matt King, the 58-year-old actor best known for his role as Super Hans in the cult sitcom Peep Show, has offered a fresh update to his fans after being hospitalised last week due to a stroke. The actor, who had earlier revealed that the stroke had left him temporarily paralysed, took to social media to share his current state.
Hospital Recovery and a Touch of Humour
In a characteristically candid post on X, King wrote: 'Right now, recovering in hospital from a stupid stroke, I've ordered a Subway club from Uber Eats and I'm m****** out to some Mazzy Star. Seriously though, they should find a f*****g cure. Thanks for the ongoing love.'
Fans responded with an outpouring of support, with many encouraging him to 'keep fighting' and wishing him a speedy recovery. One admirer from Australia wrote: 'Well wishes from Australia Matt. Classic tune.' Another commented: 'You'll be running back to Windsor before you know it Matt.'
Details of the Stroke
Last week, King disclosed that he had suffered a rare spinal cord stroke on Sunday, which initially caused paralysis. He was rushed to the Royal Sussex County Hospital, where he praised the medical staff for their 'amazing' care. In a previous post, he stated: 'It’s true. I had a rare stroke of the spinal cord on Sunday. I was initially paralysed but was rushed to The Royal Sussex and the staff have been amazing. Can walk again, a bit. My legs were jelly, man. It didn't feel f*****g brilliant. Thank you for all the love and kindness.'
His Peep Show co-star Vera Graziadei, who played Elena, also appealed for prayers on Instagram, describing King as a 'bloody brilliant actor and human'.
The Legacy of Super Hans
King's portrayal of Super Hans, the drug-addled and hilariously unpredictable friend of Mark and Jez, made him a fan favourite. The show, created by Andrew O'Connor, Jesse Armstrong, and Sam Bain, followed the lives of flatmates Mark (David Mitchell) and Jez (Robert Webb) in South London. Super Hans was known for his wacky one-liners and destructive behaviour, becoming an iconic character in British comedy.
Before landing the role, King worked as a chef in Australia, where he was encouraged to pursue stand-up comedy by Jimeoin McKeown. After 15 years as a comic, he was discovered at the Edinburgh Fringe by the Peep Show creators, who originally wrote the part with Danny Dyer in mind. King went on to appear in Skins, Doctor Who, Paddington, and The End of the F***ing World, as well as writing his own sitcom Whites.
Fan Reactions and a Possible Reunion
Fans have continued to show their love, with one writing: 'The fact that you had a stroke and still had the humour to joke about your legs being jelly says everything. You’re an inspiration Matt. Get well soon.' Another referenced Super Hans' famous line about crack being 'more-ish', while a third urged a Peep Show reunion. King recently joked that he, David Mitchell, and Robert Webb would consider a reunion if they could split £80 million.
Understanding Strokes
Strokes are a medical emergency and can be either ischemic (caused by a blockage) or hemorrhagic (caused by a burst blood vessel). Risk factors include age, high blood pressure, smoking, and diabetes. Symptoms include sudden numbness, confusion, trouble speaking, vision problems, dizziness, and severe headache. Treatment with tPA or surgery within three hours is critical for survival.
King's candid updates have highlighted both the seriousness of his condition and his enduring humour, endearing him further to his legions of fans.
